Measurement and estimation methods for interfacial tensions

Liquid-hquid inteifacial tensions can be measured by some of the same methods as for hquids. However, for other interfaces (solid-liquid, solid-solid) of importance in wetting and adhesion studies as well as for surface modification such direct measurements are not possible. Nonetheless, interfacial tension values for all interfaces are important in practical applications and thus development of estimation methods for interfacial tensions has become a very active research field. 

There are many theories for estimating interfacial tensions. They roughly belong to two families surface component theories and direct theories , with the former being the most widely used. In the surface component theories , the link between surface tensions and intermolecular forces is exploited. The surface tension is divided into different components (contributions) due to the various intermolecular forces. Among the various intermolecular forces. 

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